Protecting Fish Stocks

One of IFI's primary roles is the protection and conservation of the inland fisheries. For this purpose,IFI  enforces a wide range of fisheries laws.  These include various provisions of the Fisheries Acts, Bye-Laws, Statutory Instruments, Orders etc. While the main focus is on protection of the State's highly valuable salmon stocks, IFI staff also enforce various conservation measures for brown trout, sea trout, pike, coarse fish and bass. IFI is also responsible for protection of oyster fisheries around the coast.

To ensure compliance with the fisheries laws, IFI staff patrol extensively. The coastal area, out to the twelve mile limit, is patrolled by large patrol vessels, crewed by Fishery Officers, and by RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats) which operate in pairs. Assistance is also provided by the Naval Service and aerial patrols are also carried out from time to time by the Aer Corps with Fishery Officers on board.  Inland waters are patrolled regularly on foot, by boat and by road vehicle.  Patrols are carried out twenty-fours a day, seven days a week, right throughout the year.  Authorised Officers of IFI have wide powers under the Fisheries Acts and are empowered to seize fish, equipment, boats, vehicles etc. as well as issuing on-the-spot fines and prosecuting offenders through the courts.